Electrophysiologist James Hamilton Discusses Atrial Fibrillation

What is atrial Fibrillation? It is commonly known as Atrial Fib? Who is at risk? Electrophysiologist James Hamilton, MD, with Baptist Heart, explains this on the WLBT news program.

Atrial fibrillation (AF or A-fib) is an abnormal heart rhythm characterized by rapid and irregular beating. Often it starts as brief periods of abnormal beating which become longer and possibly constant over time. Most episodes have no symptoms. Occasionally there may be heart palpitations, fainting, shortness of breath, or chest pain. The disease is associated with an increased risk of heart failure, dementia, and stroke.